Bootstrap vs tachyons: What are the differences?

Key differences between Bootstrap and Tachyons

Bootstrap and Tachyons are both popular CSS frameworks used for building responsive and visually appealing websites. However, they differ in several key aspects.

1. Syntax and File Size: Bootstrap uses a pre-defined set of class names and selectors that need to be added to HTML elements, which can lead to bloated code and larger file sizes. On the other hand, Tachyons follows a functional CSS approach, where classes are single-purpose and can be combined to create different styles. This results in smaller file sizes and cleaner code.

2. Design and Customization: Bootstrap offers a wide range of pre-designed components, such as buttons, forms, and navigation bars, with a default aesthetic that can be customized using their extensive set of utility classes. Tachyons, on the other hand, provides a set of atomic CSS classes that allow for greater customization and the ability to create unique designs, but with a steeper learning curve.

3. Responsiveness: Bootstrap provides responsive grid systems and predefined breakpoints that make it easier to create responsive layouts. Tachyons, on the other hand, offers a more flexible and customizable approach to responsive design, allowing developers to define their own breakpoints and create unique responsive designs.

4. Browser Compatibility: Bootstrap is designed to be compatible with a wide range of browsers, including older versions and Internet Explorer. Tachyons, on the other hand, follows a mobile-first approach and is optimized for modern browsers, which may result in limited support for older browsers.

5. Opinionated vs. Unopinionated: Bootstrap is often seen as more opinionated, providing a default set of styles and components that may require additional customization to match specific design requirements. Tachyons, on the other hand, is unopinionated and provides a more modular and flexible approach to building styles, allowing developers to create their own design systems from scratch.

6. Learning Curve and Documentation: Bootstrap has extensive documentation and a large community, making it easier for beginners to learn and find support. Tachyons, although well-documented, has a steeper learning curve due to its functional CSS approach and may require a deeper understanding of CSS principles.

In summary, Bootstrap provides a more comprehensive and opinionated set of pre-designed components and styles, making it easier to quickly build a website with a consistent aesthetic. Tachyons, on the other hand, offers a more customizable and lightweight approach, allowing for greater flexibility and the ability to create unique designs, albeit with a steeper learning curve.